Alaska borders which of these oceans to the north?
More than a map
America, you’re full of surprises! 12 Geography facts you overlooked
Maybe geography class wasn’t your favorite back in the day, but now that there are no pop quizzes, it’s actually pretty fascinating, don’t you think? The United States is full of quirky facts and surprising stories that most people never hear about: Long coastlines, westernmost points, short rivers, and many more. American geography is anything but boring. So grab your coffee (or tea), kick back, and enjoy some bite-sized facts about this big, beautiful country of ours.
Image: Arthur A
The US touches three oceans
Most people remember the Atlantic and the Pacific, but the Arctic often gets overlooked. Alaska’s northern edge dips into icy Arctic waters, technically giving the US access to all three. From sunbathing to snowshoeing, we’ve got the full spectrum of ocean vibes covered!
Image: Daiwei Lu
America has the shortest river in the world
Montana is home to the Roe River, which runs for just 201 feet. That’s shorter than a city block! It runs from the source at Giant Springs to the Missouri River, near Great Falls. Sure, it’s not as mighty as the Mississippi, but it holds the record for shortest river, and that’s enough to brag around.
Image: Gaurav Kumar
Some NYC buildings are big enough to have their own zip codes
Most of us share a zip code with our neighbors. In New York City, though, some skyscrapers are so massive they’ve got one all to themselves. You know the Empire State Building? Yep, it has its own zip code, 10118. The same goes for the MetLife and Chrysler buildings. Manhattan alone has over 300 zip codes!
Image: Andrew Jephson
Alaska is the westernmost and easternmost state
That’s right: Alaska holds the title as both the farthest west and farthest east state in the United States. How is that possible? Well, the Aleutian Islands, which belong to Alaska, stretch so far out that they cross the international date line and sneak into the Eastern Hemisphere. Isn’t that just fascinating?
Image: Rod Long
From Stamford, CT, all roads lead to New York
Picture this: no matter which direction you drive—north, south, east, or west—you can end up in New York if you start in Stamford, Connecticut. Heading east requires a boat, of course, but still counts!
Image: Matt Foxx
Florida and California don’t have the longest coastline
Think sun and sand, and Florida or California might come to mind. But the state with the longest coastline is actually Alaska, by a long shot. With over 6,600 miles of shoreline, it beats the combined coastlines of all other states. Snow lovers will enjoy this one!
Image: Jakob Owens
California has almost as many people as all of Canada
Yes, the Golden State is that packed. California’s population hovers around 39 million, not enough to beat Canada, which has roughly 41 million. But give it two more years and we’ll discuss this again. This may not sound so surprising, but bear in mind that we’re comparing a single state to a whole country!
Image: Joseph Chan
Only two states are truly off on their own
Most states have neighbors, but that’s not the case for Alaska and Hawaii. They’re the loners of the country, separated by either the ocean or international borders. Meanwhile, Missouri and Tennessee are the social butterflies of the map, each touching eight other states. Whatever the number of neighbors, we love them all!
Image: Dave Hoefler
The four largest US cities (by area) are in Alaska
When we talk about big cities, most folks think of population. But if you’re measuring square miles, Alaska takes the cake. Sitka, Juneau, Wrangell, and Anchorage are the four largest cities by land area. You could fit entire states inside some of these!
Image: Kedar Gadge
The first US capital wasn’t D.C. or Philly
Washington, D.C., may be the capital now, but it wasn’t the first, you know? That honor goes to New York City, which held the title for a couple of years after the Constitution was ratified. The capital later moved to Philadelphia and then finally settled in D.C.
Image: Florian Wehde
Los Angeles had a name as long as your arm
Before it was known for Hollywood, Los Angeles had a name that would never fit on a postcard. The original Spanish settlers called it El Pueblo de Nuestra Señora la Reina de los Ángeles de Porciúncula. Translation? You try that! Thankfully, we shortened it. "L.A." is just easier for everyone.
Image: Roberto Nickson
Nebraska is the only triply landlocked state
If you’re in Nebraska and want to see the ocean, you’ll have to cross at least three states. That makes it the most landlocked state in the U.S.—"triply landlocked," to be exact. For those craving a beach day, that’s a bit of a hike. But for folks who love open plains, it’s prime real estate.
Image: Laura Seaman
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